The Risings in an Emulation Lodge

If you’re planning a visit to a lodge practicing the Emulation ritual such as St John's Lodge No. 2, Virgin Lodge No. 3, or Royal Standard Lodge No. 398, you’ll notice several differences from York Rite lodges. One particular practice that often catches visiting York Rite Masons off guard are The Risings.

Understanding the Risings

The Risings mark the nearing completion of the evening’s work and follow a structured sequence. Each Rising is preceded by the Worshipful Master standing (rising) with one knock, and they proceed as follows:

1. First Rising – Grand Lodge Business

2. Second Rising – District Business

3. Third Rising – Lodge Business

The First Rising - Grand Lodge business

The First Rising is dedicated to Grand Lodge business. Its primary purpose is to address matters related to the governing body of Freemasonry, ensuring that essential communications, directives, and administrative issues from the Grand Lodge are properly presented and acknowledged.

This may include:

• Announcements from the Grand Lodge

• Updates on policies or regulations

• Reports on Grand Lodge activities

• Communications regarding upcoming events or official decisions

• Any directives that need to be followed at the lodge level

By formally recognizing Grand Lodge business first, the lodge reinforces its connection to the broader Masonic framework, maintaining order and respect for hierarchical structure. It ensures that the most significant governing matters are addressed before moving on to district and lodge-specific discussions.

the Second Rising - district business

The Second Rising is designated for District business. This stage serves to address matters concerning the broader district in which the lodge operates, ensuring communication and coordination among lodges within the same jurisdiction.

The Second Rising typically includes:

• Reports from the District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM), including updates on district affairs and initiatives.

• Upcoming district events such as installations, visitations, or special meetings.

• Announcements regarding district-wide charitable efforts or community involvement.

• Communications between lodges within the district, fostering unity and collaboration.

• Any directives or requests from the district leadership, ensuring lodges operate in alignment with broader Masonic principles and goals.

The Junior Warden will also use the second rising to invite the brethren to the post-meeting festive board and may also use the time to have the Chaplain say Grace.

By incorporating district-level business at this stage, lodges maintain strong connections with neighboring lodges and the overall Masonic structure while reinforcing tradition and protocol.

The Third Rising - Lodge Business

The Third Rising focuses on Lodge business, addressing matters that directly impact the lodge and its members. This final stage ensures that internal affairs are handled before the meeting concludes.

During the third Rising, brethren may bring forward:

• Apologies for absent members, ensuring their absence is noted with respect.

• Notices of brethren in hospital, so the lodge can offer support or arrange visits.

• Requests for information, allowing members to seek clarification or guidance on lodge matters.

• Greetings and announcements from visiting lodges, fostering camaraderie and inter-lodge communication. This is your time to stand and bring your lodge's greetings and announcements.

• The most senior Grand Lodge officer will generally conclude this rising offering his comments for the lodge. He is the last person to speak.

The Third Rising serves as an opportunity for members to speak on important lodge-specific matters and strengthen fellowship.

Following the Third Rising, the lodge is formally closed in Due Form, signalling the conclusion of official proceedings.